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Archived Outdoors

Tour de Franklin to showcase fall’s best

Bicyclists from near and far will take to the road for the eighth-annual Tour de Franklin “Halloween Hunard” charity bicycle ride on Sunday, Oct. 30, starting from Smoky Mountain Bicycles in Franklin at 9 a.m.

With more than 100 cyclists participating in last year’s ride, the Hunard has become a popular fall event for cyclists of every level. Riders will enjoy the beauty of the routes, the festive Halloween atmosphere, and great food that comes with the post-ride meal.

Smoky Mountain Bicycles owners, Dave and Pam Forshee, have mapped out three ride choices, each offering cyclists spectacular mountain scenery when fall colors are at their peak.

This year’s routes include rides of 28, 66 and 103 miles with total climbing elevations ranging from 2,200 to 8,500 feet.

Sponsors are needed to help support the race, as well as volunteers to work at the rest stops.

“Last year, our sponsors and volunteers helped make the ride a great success,” Forshee said.

All proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project. Cost of the ride is $35 (if registered by Oct. 15) and $45 after that date. The ride fee includes fully stocked rest stops, a commemorative custom T-shirt and a post-ride meal. 828.369.2881 or www.tourdefranklin.com.